Scripture: Matthew 15:8 These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.

Observations: The religious leaders and people of Jesus’ day were great rule keepers. They were score keepers. They were great at checking to see if people were doing/obeying all the right rules. Outwardly they really seemed to have it all together. But Jesus says it was all lip service. If my religion isn’t a matter of the heart – then my worship is in vain. If my talk doesn’t come from the heart it is pointless and empty.

Application: I must continually check my heart. My actions must come from a heart for my God. My life & religion must come from my heart. The condition, attitude, and motivations of my heart need continual monitoring.

Prayer: Father, help me check my heart. Search me & try me. See if there is anything in my heart that is wrong. I want my outward actions and my heart to match. Amen.